The Reality of Time

The Reality of Time takes viewers on an immersive journey through the mysteries of time, from the Big Bang to modern physics, ancient philosophy, and myth. Using groundbreaking generative AI to re-create scientific phenomena, historical epochs, and mythological concepts, the film brings to life complex ideas that bridge science and storytelling. Narrated with stunning, AI-enhanced visuals, the documentary explores how time behaves differently at cosmic and quantum scales, challenging our linear perception. It delves into Einstein’s relativity, quantum theory, and the concept of the "block universe," where all moments coexist simultaneously. Ultimately, The Reality of Time invites viewers to reflect on the fleeting beauty and profound complexity of the present moment, merging technology and philosophy in an unprecedented exploration of the past and of existence.

  • Michael Szymczyk
    Director
  • Michael Szymczyk
    Writer
  • Michael Szymczyk
    Producer
  • John de Lancie
    Key Cast
    "Guest Narrator"
    Star Trek: The Next Generation, Picard
  • Nicole Zillmer
    Key Cast
    "Philosophy Expert"
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Experimental
  • Genres:
    Documentary, Science, Science Fiction, History
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 38 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    December 1, 2024
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Michael Szymczyk

Michael Szymczyk is an independent filmmaker, philosopher, and novelist with a visionary approach to storytelling. As the writer and director of six feature films—Scent, Eaters of the Dead, SARS-29, Journey to the End of the Night, Night of the Skinwalkers/The Night the World Ends, and The Reality of Time—he explores themes that challenge perceptions and push cinematic boundaries.

An accomplished author, Szymczyk has published eleven books across genres, including essential guides like Independent Filmmaking 101, Cinematography 101, and Cinematic AI, as well as language primers such as German 101, French 101, Spanish 101, and Latin 101. His historical and philosophical works—Atlantis & Its Fate in the Postdiluvian World and Hyperborea & The Lost Age of Man—delve into ancient mysteries, while his novels Toilet: The Novel and Tristan MacArthur & The Dark Forest of Titan reveal a unique narrative voice that offer a soft blend of science fiction and horror with existentialism.

Szymczyk’s diverse body of work reflects his passion for blending storytelling, philosophical inquiry, and cutting-edge cinematic techniques, establishing him as a thought-provoking voice in contemporary independent cinema.

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Director Statement

The Reality of Time is one of the first feature films to harness the power of generative AI to bring abstract scientific concepts and ancient times to life through visual effects. In this film, AI technology doesn’t merely enhance the visuals; it acts as a tool to help us explore one of the deepest mysteries of existence—time itself. Generative AI allows us to create images and effects that push beyond the limitations of traditional filmmaking, offering a fresh and immersive perspective on theories of time, space, and reality, and bringing to life the world of the pre-Socratic philosophers that pioneered the development of Philosophy.

By blending AI-driven visuals with philosophical, mythical and scientific inquiry, The Reality of Time offers an experience that challenges the viewer not only to question what time is but to feel the boundaries of perception stretching in real time. This film is as much an exploration of technology’s potential as it is a journey into the unknown, inviting audiences to reimagine their relationship with the very fabric of existence.